Introduction

Once the king of full-size luxury SUVs, the Lincoln Navigator has largely stood still as competitors became more advanced in recent years. It's no longer the most opulent or brash choice, but it's a commodious vehicle that's a good choice for people hauling things or passengers.

The bigger question buyers need to ponder, though, is whether they need the truck-based abilities of the Navigator -- or if they'd be better off with a more comfortable and efficient crossover.

What's New

Entering its eighth model year in its current version, the Navigator gets no meaningful changes for 2014.

Interior/Exterior

The Navigator's exterior hasn't changed much since its 2007 redesign. It may be huge, but it isn't as imposing as a Cadillac Escalade or Range Rover, nor is it as tasteful as a Mercedes-Benz GL450 or Audi Q7. Worse, it looks very similar to the Ford Expedition with which it shares many components.

It's in the Navigator's interior that age becomes a bigger problem. Materials are far from opulent, and a Navigator makes do with a relatively small screen and few advanced features like lane departure warning, around-view monitors or trick off-road controls. At least what's there is relatively easy to use -- and features like SYNC voice recognition, navigation, HD radio and power-deploying running boards are all standard equipment. Another advantage: The third-row is usable for adults and folds flat with power-assist.

Under the Hood

The only engine is a 5.4-liter V8 with 310 horsepower -- it's outdated, underpowered and not that economical at 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. The six-speed transmission is, likewise, outclassed by eight-speed gearboxes from many competitors.

Rear-wheel drive is standard, while a four-wheel drive system is an option. Towing capability is up to 9,000 pounds.

Performance

The truck-based underpinnings of the Navigator hurt its maneuverability, and it isn't more spacious than unibody competitors. In addition to a bouncy ride and vague steering, it doesn't handle with much confidence and is ultimately more of a chore to drive than any luxury vehicle should be.

Which Style To Buy?

2014 Lincoln Navigator Base

Most Popular

Recommended for: Buyers who want a large luxury SUV that can haul everything.

The Navigator comes in one well-equipped trim level with just a few options. It's already loaded, though, with features such as leather upholstery, heated first- and second-row seats, cooled front seats, a navigation system with 14-speaker HD radio, Bluetooth, USB interface, and SYNC voice recognition.

Other standard features include power seats with front seat memory, power-deploying running boards, power folding third-row seat and a backup camera. Options are few, but include four-wheel drive, a heavy-duty towing package, a rear DVD entertainment system, 20-inch chrome wheels and a power sunroof.

You can't, however, get features such as an around-view monitor, lane departure warning, head up display, or pedestrian detection as you can on competing luxury SUVs.

Buying With CarsDirect

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